Demolition work is starting at a historic Georgian square to turn a set of empty properties into high-quality townhouses and apartments.

Teams from Kier North Tyneside have started work to remove a 1950s extension at the back of Northumberland Square, in North Shields, as part of a multi-million pound regeneration project.

The demolition will take around eight weeks to complete and will clear the way for construction to start on new homes in spring 2018.

Under the scheme, the Grade II listed properties at 13-16 Northumberland Square will be transformed into houses.

Work begins on 13-16 Northumberland Square North Shields which is being redeveloped (Image: newcastle chronicle)

Later this month, planners will discuss proposals to convert the empty properties into 10 apartments and two houses. In addition, 13 homes and three apartments are proposed on land to the rear - a ‘gap site’ bordered by Albion Road and Upper Camden Street.